Luke Donald, fresh from leading Team Europe to a historic Ryder Cup victory on American soil, has barely had time to exhale. “What we did in New York was amazing, but yeah, back to the day job now,” he said, smiling at the memory of Europe’s first away win in 13 years at Bethpage Black.
Now in New Delhi for the DP World Tour India Championship, Donald is trying to shift gears from the euphoria of captaincy to the rhythm of competitive play.
I've travelled around the world quite a lot with golf but never been to India. When the opportunity came a couple of weeks after the Ryder Cup, it seemed like a great time to come and experience this wonderful country.
‘A Fun Problem to Have’: From Captain to Competitor
The Englishman laughed when asked how it felt returning to his “day job”.
To be honest, I'm not sure if I have transitioned yet. The captaincy takes up your mind for weeks — partnerships, pairings, the golf course, gifting — you wake up with Ryder Cup dreams!
Donald added that playing again in India might just be the reset he needs. “Coming here will help get my mind back on what I need to do this week. It’s a fun problem to have after a Ryder Cup win.”
A ‘Severe’ Challenge at Delhi Golf Club
Donald, who arrived in Delhi after a delay and managed only a few hours of practice, admitted he’s still acquainting himself with the Delhi Golf Club (DGC). “It’s very close to the centre of town and unique in how narrow it is. A lot of guys won’t bring their driver out this week.”
It creates more thought process and course management. You’ve got to plot your way around,” he said, comparing it to classic courses like Hilton Head that reward strategy over strength.
‘Still Some Good Stuff in There’
Though it’s been some time since his last big individual win, Donald isn’t ready to write himself off. “I still believe I can put four rounds together and have a chance to win,” he said.
But he acknowledged the challenge. “It’s always going to be hard for me to win. I haven’t put enough time into my individual game in the last six months. But there’s still good stuff in there — you never know, especially around a course like this.”
On reflecting over his career, Donald was characteristically composed: “To have been World No. 1 for over a year — that consistency is something I’m proud of. Yes, disappointed not to have won a major, but being the best in the world for that long speaks to sustained excellence.”
‘Greatest Captain’? Donald Responds with Humility
When called “Europe’s greatest captain”, Donald was modest. “Maybe it’s a bit of reaction in the moment, but I’ve given a lot to it. You need 12 players, the backroom team, vice captains — so many others to make it happen.”
As for the future? “If I’m not captain in two years’ time and the new captain wants me to help, I’d be happy to.”
Viktor Hovland Eyes Fresh Start After Injury
Viktor Hovland, one of Europe’s key Ryder Cup players, has also touched down in New Delhi. With seven PGA Tour titles and a FedEx Cup to his name, the Norwegian described his first impressions of the DGC warmly.
It’s very nice — the old buildings and ruins give it a cool feel, kind of like Mayakoba, where I’ve had success. Already good vibes being here.
Hovland missed the Sunday singles at Bethpage due to a neck injury, a decision that stirred debate. “It was pretty upsetting not to play, and I felt bad for Harris who also missed out.”
Now, he’s ready to move forward. “I took a week and a half off after the Ryder Cup. My neck felt okay, so I decided to fly over and give it a chance.”
